About 60 people have answered the open call auditions for the play Joy in the Morning which is set to be staged at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts, at the end of the month.

The show is being produced by actress Robin Givens who first came to the Island for the Lori McNeil Celebrity Tennis Classic in September.

Based on a book by Ruth Givens, Robin's mother, Joy in The Morning was last performed in New York City's Carnegie Hall about two years ago.

It tells the story of a woman who overcomes difficulties in her life to come to know true happiness.

"It's a healing experience, a transforming experience," said Ms Givens. "You just feel better."

Ms Givens, who performed alongside Yolanda Adams, James Avery and Johnny Gill for the Carnegie Hall production, said that she was drawn to bring the show to Bermuda because of the abundance of talent here and her love for the Island.

And her plans include bringing veteran performers like Stephanie Mills and BeBe Winans to share the stage with upcoming local talents.

Last night some 30 aspiring actors and singers from 11 years of age to 55 took to the stage at Ruth Seaton James hoping to be selected for a part in the play.

The show opens November 30 and runs until December 2. Tickets will be on sale from tomorrow.